In Season, March 2026

Happy March! Today marks the first day of spring, and I’m so ready to welcome in warmer weather and brighter days. This time of year always brings a fresh wave of inspiration, and I think you’ll feel that reflected throughout this month’s issue of In Season.

Inside, you’ll find a flavorful weeknight dinner idea, porch-ready finds, and a few little treats designed to spark a smile. I’ve also included a playlist to set the mood, along with a new feature highlighting homes for sale in wine country. I hope you enjoy the fresh start spring offers!

Featured Recipe

I’ve been so excited to share this weeknight recipe with you—it’s quickly become a favorite in our house, and I have a feeling you’ll love it just as much.

It was inspired by a chicken dish I had at Sol Food in Petaluma, and it’s all about incredible flavor and tenderness. The chicken turns out so juicy and perfectly cooked that it practically falls apart. No Instant Pot? No problem—you can easily make it in a slow cooker or a Dutch oven.

Ingredients

  • 7 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs
  • 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 Tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 2 Tbsp tandoori seasoning (or more if you’re like me and heavy-handed)

Note: This is the exact seasoning I use—it’s a new favorite!

For the Instant Pot

  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • Zest of 2 limes
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 Tbsp honey
  • 1 additional 1 tsp tandoori seasoning

Instructions

1. Season the chicken.

Pat chicken thighs dry. Then, in a bowl, combine:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Garlic powder
• Ginger
• Tandoori seasoning

Coat the chicken generously on all sides, then marinate at least 1 hour (2–4 hours is even better.)

2. Brown the chicken.

Turn the Instant Pot to sauté (high), then add a little olive oil.

Brown the chicken thighs 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Tip: Work in batches so the pot isn’t crowded.

Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Build the sauce.

Add the following to the hot pot:

• Chicken broth
• Lime zest
• Lime juice
• Honey
• Extra tandoori seasoning

Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the brown bits on the bottom (that’s flavor gold!)

4. Pressure cook.

Return the chicken to the pot., then seal the lid and cook on maul/high pressure for 12 minutes.

Let it naturally release for 10 minutes, then release the remaining pressure.

5. Finish and enjoy!

Spoon the limey spiced juices over the chicken before serving.

Wine Country Real Estate

Looking to relocate? Reach out to Mark Mother F*king Altes at [email protected] for more information on this month’s featured homes. He’s well-versed in the wine country market and can help you explore additional properties that fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for a weekend retreat or a full-time residence, he’s a great resource to have on your side!

1. Refreshed Napa Valley Classic

4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms
1,851 square feet

See the full listing here.

2. Charming, Single-Level Home in Montgomery Village

3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
1,219 square feet

See the full listing here.

3. Luxurious Mediterranean Estate in Santa Rosa

4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms
5,369 square feet

See the full listing here.

Home Spotlight

A little spring porch refresh goes a long way—think fresh greenery, cozy seating, and a few simple touches to welcome the season. Here are this month’s picks…

  1. This outdoor rug strikes the perfect balance between neutral and eye-catching thanks to its fun print. Bonus: It’s on sale right now!
  2. Prefer more color? This rug has a slight pop of green that feels fitting for spring and summer.
  3. I’ve been on the hunt for a new patio umbrella and thought this scalloped find was adorable.
  4. Our outdoor swing is in major need of an upgrade. This is the one I’m currently eyeing!
  5. These planters are an investment, but they’re timeless and are sure to hold up throughout several seasons.
  6. Another sale pick for the win! This patterned throw pillow would complement a white outdoor sofa or chair.
  7. Last but not least, this light blue side table totally won me over. Use it to set drinks or a citronella candle!

Playlist of the Month

Finds I’m Loving

A few little delights—things I own and love or have been eyeing lately. From everyday essentials to small splurges, just the kind of pieces that make day-to-day feel a bit more special.

  1. I recently came across this brand at a local store and loved the scent. I’m sensitive to fragrance and appreciate that this is on the subtle side.
  2. These under $100 sunglasses were just delivered to my house and I can’t wait to wear them!
  3. I almost bought a pair of jelly mules like these at Anthropologie for more than double the price. My friend suggested these instead—and they’re nearly identical!
  4. This sling bag is the ideal size for carrying on everyday occasions, whether you’re running to the grocery store or you’re heading to your child’s baseball practice. I have it in white!
  5. Treat yourself to a pair of luxurious pajamas this spring. This satin top and the matching bottoms are the first two pieces I reach for when putting my PJs on at night!
  6. Wear these dainty earrings on your next date night or to a spring wedding—they offer the perfect amount of sparkle.

What I’m Watching

The Style Edit

In honor of I Wanna Brunch With Somebody happening next month (yay!), I thought I’d put together some inspo on what to wear. Even if you weren’t able to snag a ticket this time around, this outfit would be adorable for other occasions, like a girls night out. If you are coming to the brunch event, I can’t wait to see you there—so fu*king excited!

Thanks so much for reading. See you next month!
Erika's Signature

Hi! I’m Erika and I live in Sonoma County with my high school sweetheart and two kids. Follow along to find home inspiration, delicious recipes, and the inside scoop on all things wine country.

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